The Cairn

Family Tree
Although Cairn Terriers are not a common breed in America, they have
been in existence for quite a while. They originated over two hundred
years ago in the Highlands of Scotland and on the Isle of Skye. They
were bred to hunt vermin which infested the rural areas, and were a
great help in bolting the fox, the otter, the weasel, and others from
their dens in the ground, in the rocks, or under the rock cairns (heaps
of stones) found there.

They are cousins to the
Scottish and the West Highland White Terriers which come from Scotland
too. Although their ancestors were closely related, there is a profound
and distinct difference between the present day breeds.

Spirit of the Chase
It was their job to go after the game and worry it until it came out to
be killed by their masters. To do the job properly, they had to be
fairly small to enter the holes after their quarry. They had muscular
shoulders with short strong front legs and sturdy feet to assist in
digging. Their powerful jaws and large teeth quickly convinced their
adversary that they meant business if he wanted a fight.

They often take to the
water and have thick, heavy, water repellent coats to protect them.
They are fearless and would never give up on a chase or in a battle.
This is still the “code” of the Cairn Terrier. The name
“Terrier” came from the Latin “Terra” meaning
earth, since Cairns are diggers or “earthdogs”.

Talents Soon Discovered
In those early days, Cairns were intended as hunters for the most part,
but it wasn't long until their owners found that they made excellent
watchdogs, good companions or house dogs.

High IQ
Cairns are intelligent and although full of spirit, not high strung.
They will not bark much unless there is a prowler, at which time they
display their talents as a good watch dog.

Easily Adaptable
Cairns can be either house dogs or outdoor dogs and will joyfully make
their home with you in a small apartment or large home in the city or
the country, in warm climate or cold. Their thick, double coat sheds
rain and keeps them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It
doesn't require much care other than regular brushing and combing,
which maintains cleanliness, and an occasional slight grooming will
retain the sharp Cairn look.

At Meal Time
They are not fussy eaters. A routine diet of commercial dog food with a
few supplements will keep them healthy, bright and alert.

Exercise is Fun
As often as you wish the Cairn will go on long walks with you... as far
as you are willing to go. They are good travelers and enjoy short
drives or long trips in the car.

Manners Perfect
Cairns are easily housebroken when still small puppies. They will sleep
wherever you wish, whether box, a corner of the room, in a crate, the
kennel, an easy chair, or on a bed if invited.

Welcome Visitors
When company comes, Cairns are as good as they can be and never bark
unnecessarily. If taught not to jump up on visitors, the won't. They
will gladly show off the tricks they have been taught. One of their
favorites is to play fetch with a ball. They make friends easily, and
love both adults and children.

Owning a Cairn
If your choice is a Cairn Terrier, we welcome you to the world of the
Cairn. Cairn owners become loyal fanciers and seldom want any other
breed. Many say that the only thing better than owning one Cairn is
owning two!